Necrons are the ancient robot empire of the galaxy in Warhammer 40K. Learn their history, colors, painting techniques, and playstyle in this complete 2025 guide.
Necrons are one of the oldest and most enigmatic armies in Warhammer 40,000.
Their aesthetic – metallic bodies, glowing energy weapons, and silently marching legions – evokes a sense of both threat and beauty.
Necrons were once flesh-and-blood beings, but traded their bodies for metal in exchange for immortality. Now they awaken from their tomb worlds, determined to reclaim the galaxy they once owned.
They combine mechanical perfection, ancient wisdom, and ruthless power, making them a favorite for both painters and strategic players.
The History of the Necrons
Origin – from Necrontyr to machine
Long before humanity existed, the Necrontyr ruled – a civilization plagued by short lifespans and constant sickness.
Their hatred for the immortal Old Ones led to a war that nearly annihilated them.
In desperation, they turned to the god-like C’tan – beings of pure energy. The C’tan promised them immortality, but the price was terrible: their souls were transferred into metallic bodies.
They became Necrons – immortal, but without emotion or free will.
The Awakening
After millions of years in stasis, the Necron empires began to awaken from their tomb worlds.
They rebuilt their armies and began to exterminate younger races such as humans, orks, and tau.
Led by Overlords, Lords, and Crypteks, the Necrons seek to restore their former dominance – and crush the organic life forms that now rule the galaxy.
Necron Hierarchy
The Necrons are led by a complex structure of mechanical nobility:
| Rank | Description |
|---|---|
| Phaeron | Ruler of the empire, leads entire dynasties |
| Overlord | Regional commanders with their own will |
| Lord | Generals who govern smaller tomb worlds |
| Cryptek | Scientists and technomancers |
| Lychguard | Elite guards with sacred loyalty |
| Warriors | The backbone of every army – tireless soldiers |
Aesthetics and Painting
Necrons are visually unique: metal, green energy, and a sense of cold immortality.
Their models are both easy to paint and very rewarding to weather for realistic results.
Classic Color Palette
| Part | Color | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Leadbelcher | Base |
| Shadow | Nuln Oil | Shade |
| Highlight | Runefang Steel | Edge |
| Energy (weapons, eyes) | Moot Green + White Scar | Glow effect |
| Details | Abaddon Black / Retributor Armour | Trim |
| Base | Astrogranite + Agrax Earthshade | Texture |
Tip:
Apply a thin Tesseract Glow to energy components for the classic Necron glow.
Alternative Color Schemes
Each Necron dynasty has its own color code. Some popular examples:
| Dynasty | Colors | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Sautekh Dynasty | Silver, green energy | Classic style and most recognized |
| Mephrit Dynasty | Black and bronze with green glow | Menacing and elegant |
| Novokh Dynasty | Red and metallic with orange energy | Aggressive and brutal |
| Nihilakh Dynasty | Turquoise metal, light green energy | Ancient and regal |
| Szarekhan Dynasty | Dark metal with white energy | The newest and most mysterious dynasty |
These colors can be easily recreated with Citadel Contrast paints or classic layering techniques.
Playstyle – The Undying Machine Legion
Necrons are an army built on resilience, technology, and superior firepower.
They are not the fastest, but they are very difficult to kill – thanks to their unique ability Reanimation Protocols, which allows them to reanimate after being shot down.
Strengths
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Very durable troops with reanimation capabilities
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Many units with high volume of fire
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Balance between close combat and ranged combat
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Visually impressive models
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Easy to learn, but difficult to master
Weaknesses
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Relatively slow
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Requires positioning and patience
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Can be overwhelmed by very mobile armies
Key Units
| Unit | Role | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| Overlord | Leader | Strengthens nearby troops and provides auras |
| Necron Warriors | Standard | The backbone, reliable and resilient |
| Immortals | Elite | Heavier armored troops with better weapons |
| Skorpekh Destroyers | Elite | Aggressive close-combat robots with high damage |
| Canoptek Wraiths | Fast unit | Flies through terrain, good for flanking |
| Doomsday Ark | Vehicle | Powerful long-range artillery |
| C’tan Shard | Monstrous unit | Demi-god with devastating psychic attacks |
Building Your First Necron Army
For new players, Necrons are one of the most beginner-friendly armies in the game.
They are easy to paint, forgiving to play, and visually impressive on the tabletop.
Recommended start:
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Combat Patrol: Necrons (contains Warriors, Immortals, Skorpekh Destroyers, Overlord)
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Canoptek Wraiths for speed
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Doomsday Ark for firepower
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Cryptek for buffs and repairs
This provides an army of approximately 1000 points and costs around 2,500–3,000 SEK.
Painting Tips
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Start with black primer for a deeper metallic tone.
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Apply Leadbelcher as a base.
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Shade with Nuln Oil for depth.
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Drybrush with Runefang Steel for metallic sheen.
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Paint energy with Moot Green mixed with a little white.
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Apply Tesseract Glow for a glowing effect.
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Give the base texture and color variation with Agrax Earthshade and drybrushing.
For a quicker method, you can use Citadel Contrast paints like Basilicanum Grey and Wyldwood for metallic variations.
Lore and symbolism
Necrons are a reminder of how technology can become a curse.
Their story is a tragedy: they sought eternal life, but lost their souls.
Symbols and themes:
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The green glow symbolizes the energetic power of the C’tan.
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Hieroglyphs and runes represent ancient power and culture.
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Monolith structures are sacred tomb-ships and portals between worlds.
Their hierarchy and rituals are as old as the galaxy itself. They regard all other lifeforms as primitive and see their resurgence as inevitable.
Necrons in 2025 – strength and balance
In 10th edition, Necrons are a stable, well-balanced army that performs well in both tournaments and casual play.
They have gained improved Reanimation Protocols and more opportunities to influence the battlefield via commands from their Overlords.
Popular combinations:
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Overlord + Warriors + Ghost Ark for a durable core
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Skorpekh Destroyers + Chronomancer for offensive synergy
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C’tan Shard of the Nightbringer for breaking elite enemies
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Necrons good for beginners?
Yes, they are one of the easiest and most durable armies to play.
Which primer works best?
Black primer gives a metallic depth and suits all dynasties.
Are Necrons a defensive or offensive army?
They are primarily defensive but can be adapted to an offensive playstyle.
Can you mix different dynasties in the same army?
Yes, but you lose certain bonuses. It is recommended to stick to one dynasty.
Who are their greatest enemies?
The Imperium and the Aeldari are traditional adversaries, but Necrons view all organic lifeforms as enemies.
Conclusion
Necrons are a perfect blend of ancient tragedy and technological superiority.
They offer a fascinating combination of durability, aesthetics, and strategy.
For painters, they are simple yet rewarding; for players, they are stable and forgiving.
Summary:
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One of the most iconic armies in Warhammer 40K
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Durable, balanced, and easy to play
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Unique metallic design and atmosphere
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Deep lore and impressive models
Necrons are the eternal army. They waited in silence for millions of years, and now they have awakened to reclaim their rightful place in the galaxy.